Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in San Elijo State Beach

"San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of the best things to do in San Diego for kids though plenty of adults go for the safaris, to see the animals, and learn more about conservation. Large free-range enclosures are designed to closely mimic the natural habitats of exotic animals like rhinos, camels, cheetahs, gorillas, giraffes, lions, tigers, warthogs, wild cattle, and zebras. More than 3,000 animals representing 300 species roam freely throughout the park, and you can see them from trams, golf carts, trucks, large helium balloons, and zip lines."

"With savannahs of giraffes and rhinos, a tiger forest, gorilla habitat and many other great enclosures, kids are totally entertained. For the family that wants a little something extra, you can actually stay at the Safari Park overnight. That’s right, Roar and Snore allow you an after hour look at all the animals."

"The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Escondido’s leading attraction, is located only 6 miles from Escondido RV Resort. Enjoy an active and hands-on safari experience, plus 10% off tickets through the resort!"

"Carlsbad’s oceanic atmosphere isn’t nearly complete without Batiquitos Lagoon!. Recognized by the state as an ecological reserve, this haven for endangered plants and animals is open to the public for your uninterrupted exploration!. Recognized as one of the few tidal wetlands remaining in Southern California, the Batiquitos Lagoon allows you to enjoy the company of perfect weather and non-profit marine preservation."

"Hikers at Batiquitos can look forward to a low-elevation, wetland walk on a 3.25-mile trail that winds through a park-like environment. If you go, you’ll encounter lots of families, dog walkers, and more than a few bird watchers. Owls, ducks, swans and other water-loving birds make Batiquitos their home in large numbers."

"With various parking areas on the northern side, Batiquitos Lagoon is a great stop for a two-mile hike. Just east of Interstate 5, the area is home to 610 acres of lagoon space and has been preserved for public enjoyment from oceanic silt buildup. Bicycles are not allowed, though pets are – provided they are on a leash."

"After taking in some of the best restaurants in Escondido or best brunch spots in Carlsbad, head to Daley Ranch to walk off what you just ate. With over 3,000 miles of conservation area to explore, you can enjoy the natural vegetation, oak woodlands, grasslands, and more. And if you’re interested in some history, there are plenty of old buildings to explore on the property too."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Downtowngal used under CC BY-SA 3.0. A great way to explore true southwestern California, the way you’re supposed to, Daley Ranch has fresh air and rustic ambiance in a gorgeous location. The hiking trails are lovely, offering breathtaking views over Escondido ranch land."

"The park was named after Christopher (Kit) Carson, the famous scout who guided Captain John C. Fremont over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during a government exploration expedition. The City of Escondido acquired the land for its largest regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Address:3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025"

"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."

"The first solo restaurant from popular chef Accursio Lota has been well-received by locals as well as the international culinary community. The year-old North Park eatery, where the chef celebrates his Sicilian heritage, was recently awarded “new opening of the year” by Gambero Rosso, an Italian food and wine magazine."

"Baci Restaurant is beloved by locals and definitely one of the most famous restaurants in San Diego. It offers diners a hint of old-world Italian charm, with cozy booths, white tab..."

"Baci Restaurant is beloved by locals and definitely one of the most famous restaurants in San Diego. It offers diners a hint of old-world Italian charm, with cozy booths, white tab"

"This hike will take you through unique rock structures, and at the end, you can enjoy the sunset from the beach (a sometimes nude one). Don’t forget to check out the Mushroom House too while you’re there. More: Photo Guide to Hiking the Ho Chi Minh Trail"

"Hosp Grove was founded by a group of investors called The Hosp Eucalyptus Corp in 1908. They planted 219 acres of trees in this Carlsbad grove hoping they could be harvested & sold to the Santa Fe Railroad as railroad ties. Much of the grove has been sold off, but what remains are fun, forested trails with plenty of inclines and twists & turns."

"With tables and chairs, benches and stoops, with a fountain constantly gurgling a serene background noise and the bay just within eyesight, this urban piazza in the heart of Little Italy is just amazing. Enjoy a coffee, a rendezvous or a book while you bask in a sunlit day with a cool bay breeze. This memorial to neighborhood soldiers who died during the Korean War is a beautiful monument to these heroes."